Keefe: Appalachian Cultural Competency

Keefe: Appalachian Cultural Competency

The author of this article is seeking to educate people on the origins of Appalachian culture, and how though it seems much different than traditional “American” culture, if explored many aspects are similar. I was struck at the beginning by the author’s note that Appalachian culture draws much the same core values as most other American societies, but the “strength and presence” of the value may present itself differently. Keefe gave the example of individualism: traditional American culture says that this value is the right to be nonconformist and pursue the American Dream. Appalachian culture also values individualism, but emphasizes independence and sovereignty. The values are the same between the cultures but expressed more clearly in different points. Keefe went on to express that Appalachian culture has been put under the victim-blaming umbrella that presupposes that “mountain people” are responsible for and perpetuate their own state of poverty. However, close investigation of colonial pursuits and involvement in Appalachian culture show that outside influences are more to blame.

The implications of this information are that any efforts as educators that we pursue to make differences when working with students from Appalachian backgrounds will only be effective if we understand the culture. The study the author cited about tobacco cessation materials showed the ineffective nature of those who went in to try and educate without first educating themselves. Without knowing what the students we work with value, and by making harmful assumptions about the reason that the students live in poverty, we do a disservice to our students. 
                I was especially interested by the note during the part of the article about medical studies which stated that fokloric medicine has never impeded modern medicine in the areas that were studied, and in fact still helps contribute to research and modern medicine.

The program designed within the article which familiarized the nursing students with the area and culture seemed comprehensive and beneficial to both parties involved and I think that similar programs for educators in such areas could be of equal benefit.